Dhaka: Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer and Leader of the Opposition in Parliament, Dr. Shafiqur Rahman, has called on the government to urgently rescue victims of enforced disappearances and bring those responsible to justice. In a statement made on the eve of the International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances, observed globally on August 30, Dr. Rahman highlighted the ongoing plight faced by affected families and the need for immediate intervention.
According to United News of Bangladesh, Dr. Rahman emphasized that the day serves as a reminder of the victims of enforced disappearances and a demonstration of solidarity with their families. He underscored the deep psychological trauma and humanitarian crises experienced by countless families who remain unaware of their loved ones' fates. Dr. Rahman pointed out that enforced disappearances occur globally as a tool of political persecution by authoritarian regimes, with Bangladesh being no exception.
Dr. Rahman cited reports from domestic and international human rights organizations, claiming that over 700 individuals, including opposition political party members, have disappeared under the current government led by Sheikh Hasina. He alleged the existence of secret detention centers, such as 'Ainaghar', where individuals are subjected to severe torture, marking a violation of basic human rights and international law.
Criticizing the government's legislative approach, Dr. Rahman noted that the Prevention and Remedies of Disappearances Ordinance, 2025, was issued by an interim government to curb enforced disappearances. However, it lapsed without becoming law due to perceived inconsistencies. Subsequent amendments, he argued, undermined the original intent and granted police the authority to investigate these cases despite potential conflicts of interest.
Dr. Rahman also raised concerns about the impartiality of databases on enforced disappearances managed by government agencies, which could be involved in such acts. He criticized the exclusion of the National Human Rights Commission from the investigative process, advocating for its involvement to ensure independence and impartiality.
Further, Dr. Rahman expressed apprehension over proposed amendments to the National Human Rights Commission Act, fearing they would weaken the commission's effectiveness. He urged the government to prioritize addressing the humanitarian crisis caused by enforced disappearances and to take decisive steps to rescue missing citizens and ensure their safe return.
He concluded by calling for exemplary punishment for those involved in enforced disappearances and advocated for the recognition of enforced disappearance as a special crime, requiring a unique legal framework for investigation and prosecution of perpetrators.